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UFS declares zero-tolerance against gender-based violence

24 November 2023 | Story Valentino Ndaba | Photo SUPPLIED

UFS KovsieCare GBV Social Media — The UFS is joining forces with the international community during the annual 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence.

As the world will soon commemorate the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) campaign, the University of the Free State (UFS) joins the fight against this pervasive issue. Dedicated to eradicating GBV and fostering a safe environment, the institution has pledged an unwavering commitment to a zero-tolerance stance against all forms of GBV.

The 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence is an annual global initiative that starts on 25 November 2023 – International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women – and concludes on 10 December 2023 – Human Rights Day. The theme for this year, ‘Accelerating actions to end gender-based violence and femicide: leaving no one behind’, emphasises the need for a comprehensive, inclusive effort to combat GBV.

Legislation addressing GBV

Gender-based violence, rooted in the systemic imbalance of power and authority, manifests in multifaceted forms that encompass emotional, physical, financial, and sexual abuse, among others. Recognising the gravity of this issue, parliament has enacted laws, including the Domestic Violence Act of 1998 and the Children's Act of 2005, striving to safeguard individuals from such atrocities and championing fundamental human rights.

The UFS, aligned with parliament's vision and encapsulating its own Vision 130 within the 2023-2028 Strategic Plan, remains steadfast in its dedication to fostering a culture of accountability, care, and social justice within its staff and student community.

The significance of activism

Dr Lentsu Nchabeleng, Deputy Director in the Gender Equality and Anti-Discrimination Office (GEADO), emphasised the pivotal role of the 16 Days of Activism in societal progress. “Advocacy plays an important role in prevention by promoting education and awareness. Advocacy challenges harmful societal norms and stereotypes that contribute to gender-based violence and can help foster a culture of equality and respect," she stated.

Useful resources

The UFS has provided resources for the staff and student community, including frequently asked questions (FAQs) about GBV and sexual offences, aiming to clarify these important matters. Help and reporting avenues for GBV and sexual misconduct are available on the Bloemfontein and South campuses, with similar support available on the Qwaqwa Campus, underscoring the university's dedication to a safe and supportive environment for all.

Click to download the resource documents:

Important contacts

The university has also implemented support systems, including dedicated 24-hour toll-free helplines for reporting GBV and sexual offenses, underscoring its commitment to addressing this epidemic.

GEADO toll-free: 0800 204 682
UFS Student Careline toll-free: 0800 00 6363

News Archive

UFS academic leaves for national parliament

2009-05-28

The Head of the Department of Afro-asiatic Studies, Sign Language and Language Practice at the University of the Free State (UFS), Prof Annelie Lotriet (pictured), is leaving the university at the end of this month.

Prof Lotriet has been seconded to the national parliament as a member of the Democratic Alliance’s shadow cabinet responsible for arts and culture.

“I am very sad to go because I think I am leaving the university at a point where there are many changes coming and I think we are going to go into a very interesting and challenging time at this university with our new rector taking office one of these days,” she said.

“On that point I am actually sad that I am not going to be here to experience it because I think the university has all the potential to become one of the main role players in higher education in South Africa and, obviously, I will be watching it with interest.”

Prof Lotriet has worked for the UFS for 25 years and regards language and multilingualism as her passion. She reflected on her major achievement: “I think what still stands out for me was the fact that we ran the interpreting service for the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and that made an indelible impact on my life. We were involved in it right from the start to the end. We really put interpreting on the map.”

Mr Philemon Akach, a senior lecturer in the department, will act in her position until the end of the year.

“I have full confidence in him,” she said. “He is a world-renowned expert in interpreting and sign language, so I think the department is in good hands.”

Media Release:
Mangaliso Radebe
Assistant Director: Media Liaison
Tel: 051 401 2828
Cell: 078 460 3320
E-mail: radebemt.stg@ufs.ac.za
28 May 2009

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